Police are appealing for witnesses after a bogus caller stole a four-figure sum from a pensioner in Dumbarton.

The man is alleged to have made off with the 73-year-old's cash after gaining access to an address in Willox Park on the pretence of checking windows.

Officers are warning the public to be on their guard following the incident which took place between 11am and 11.30am on Thursday, January 24.

The suspect is described as a white male, aged in in his 40s, around 5 foot 7” tall, with short/balding hair. At the time of the incident the man was described as having a workman-like appearance.

Police are also keen to speak to the driver of a black caddy van seen in the Willox Park area, close to the time of the incident, as they may have information which could assist with their enquiries.

Inspector Mo Boyle from West Dunbartonshire Community Policing Team, said: “These are despicable individuals who have preyed on a vulnerable man. It is totally unacceptable to leave anyone feeling unsafe in their own home.

“This crime was reported to us yesterday (Tuesday, January 29). There may be other people in the Dumbarton area who have been approached by this man but haven’t yet come forward to police.

“If you have had someone at your door recently that you were unsure of, or if a relative has informed you of an incident, we would like to hear from you."

Anyone who can assist with this investigation is asked to contact Police Scotland officers at Dumbarton CID on 101 quoting incident number 1314 of January 29.

Alternatively CRIMESTOPPERS can be contacted on 0800 555 111, where anonymity can be maintained.